Certain spinal conditions can be surgically treated through traditional open surgery, or a procedure known as minimally invasive spine surgery. This involves making smaller incisions to allow a small camera to be inserted into the body. The small camera allows the surgeon to clearly see the relevant area of the spine and then use the relevant instruments to perform the surgical procedure. It’s a great way to get a better picture of what might be causing you certain problems. Minimally invasive spine surgery has some benefits over traditional open surgery, including.
There is a lower risk of complications
In traditional open surgery, the doctor usually makes a long incision to reach the affected area of the spine. Any open operation carries the possibility of complications like excessive bleeding or infections. However, a minimally invasive operation involves making very small incisions. This helps to reduce the risk of developing complications. Moreover, since the incisions are tiny, there will be less blood loss. Since this procedure has less potential for complications, it can be carried out in an outpatient facility. Which is great for convenience as some patients might not have the time to go somewhere else.
Their risk of muscle damage is reduced
A traditional open operation involves pulling away muscles from the affected area to treat it, which can cause damage to soft tissue and the muscle. On the other hand, a non-traditional operation does not involve cutting or pulling muscles of the body to the same extent. Thus, there is a reduced risk of damage to the surrounding area and the muscle. This procedure is great as it leaves little scarring and less damage around the area. That way patients aren’t live with obvious marks and can enjoy their quality of life.
Quicker recovery
Due to the small incision made on the body, the body recovers quicker compared to a major operation. In addition, since the patients will have little to no muscle damage, they will often be discharged quicker. This is great for patients on the go. Some people need to move on with their lives and having these types of procedures available will make their lives easier. You aren’t left to wonder how long the recovery is going to take. All you must do is rest for a couple of days and then you’re good to go.
It is a less painful procedure
Spinal procedures are usually carried out to help in relieving compression of the spinal nerves which can cause pain in the patient’s arms, back, legs, or other areas of their bodies. When a traditional operation is carried out, it can result in significant discomfort because of the larger incision that has been used in the procedure. However, patients that undergo a minimally invasive operation usually experience less pain throughout each aspect of the procedure. In addition, the patients may also have less postoperative pain, which reduces the need for dangerous pain medications.
The cosmetic results are superior
Since the operation involves making smaller incisions, it will not have the long scars which usually accompany traditional open operations. In addition, the smaller incisions will result in minimal scarring, which will provide superior cosmetic results. However, although a minimally invasive operation may be attractive to every patient, some patients may not be suited for the operation because it isn’t suitable for every single type of spinal issue. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor about the possibility of undergoing the operation, as well as the advantages and disadvantages before deciding.
Conclusion
Minimally invasive spine surgery has benefits over a traditional open operation. They include less damage to soft tissue and muscles, experiencing less pain after the procedure, quicker recovery, and shorter hospital stays. This allows the patients to return to their normal daily activities after undergoing the procedure. It also gives them more incentive to investigate receiving the surgery if it’s necessary for their health. They don’t have to worry about any damage and instead focus on their quality of life.
